–public hearings to start soon

-by Kimberly Giddings

The Commission of Inquiry appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the MV Barima tragedy commenced preparatory work, with public hearings expected to begin shortly.

Speaking on his Issues in the News programme, Attorney General, Anil Nandlall said there is significant legal work to be done, including the replacement of legal documents, administering the estates of those who died, and ensuring the legal interests of their beneficiaries are protected.

He said the team will also have to deal with applications to declare missing persons legally dead, while meeting with relatives to gather information needed to determine beneficiaries and other persons affected.

Nandlall said legal research is also being conducted to establish the necessary framework and provide legal advice to Government as it considers recommended financial assistance for affected families.

“This is not compensation, it’s not intended to be compensation, first of all the government is not admitting liability here, the government is offering assistance. Naturally any person who will be engaged will be advised that they have a right to retain and instruct lawyers of their choice if they wish,” he said.

Nandlall said this initiative of the government includes both long term and short term support for the affected persons.

The commission, chaired by former Belizean Justice of Appeal Godfrey Smith, began preparations immediately upon appointment. 

In a release, the commission said it conducted a preliminary in -person survey of the accident site and secured the Arthur Chung Conference Centre as the venue for hearings which will be opened to the public.

A secretariat has been established for administrative and logistical support, and a list of potential witnesses is being compiled, while officials are preparing a preliminary schedule for witness interviews.